How To Choose the Right Network for Your Virtual Assistance Practice

Any virtual assistant who has been in business for more than a few months knows the value of having a network of fellow VAs to turn to for venting, support and assistance.  Beyond just being a virtual water cooler, the right network can help you attract clients, learn technical skills and build a great practice.    On the other hand, choose the wrong group and you might end up wasting valuable time or maybe even getting bad advice. Here are some questions to ask when choosing a networking group:

1.  Are there VAs there at all different levels in their practices?  To be a valuable part of the group, you want to both have people to ask questions of and to be able to lend a helping hand to people who are in a different place than you are. (another hint:  giving intelligent answers to questions can help bring you to the attention of more senior VAs in the group who might be looking for interns or subscontractors).

2. Are there VAs there who work in varied niches?  You want to network with other virtual assistants in your niche — but having virtual assistants in different niches and with different specialties can afford great networking opportunities and learning experiences.

3. Are there opportunities for skill building?  As a VA one of your primary (but not billable jobs) is to keep up with technology changes, new programs, updates, etc. so that you can keep your client informed.  A good networking group will offer plenty of learning opportunities.

4. Do you have access to job referrals? There are many clients out there looking for qualified VAs many turn to reputable virtual assistant networking groups to find the right VA.

5.  Does the group meet by phone sometimes too?  Being virtual is all well and good — but sometimes talking by phone really helps you to connect with others.

6. Do you like the people in the group?  When you are investigating groups to join - you should try a few out to see where you feel the most comfortable.  Most groups include a free segment to get your feet wet and see if the group is right for you.

Once you find the right group, take the time to participate.  The old saying is true — you'll get as much out of the group as you put into it

Two groups that I recommend checking out are the AssistU (open to AssistU alumni only) and  VANetworking (especially the VAInsiders club). VANetworking is open to all virtual assistants.